Summer with Lyme: How to Stay Well When the Heat Is On

Let’s talk summer. For most people, it’s a season of sunshine, BBQs and beach days. But for those of us managing Lyme disease, summer comes with a few extra considerations: more ticks, more heat and more chances to push ourselves when we probably shouldn’t.

The good news? You can still enjoy summer without setting off a flare-up. It just takes some thoughtful planning and a little extra self-kindness. At Lyme Laser™, we see firsthand how Lyme symptoms can shift with the seasons and we’re here to help you navigate the sunny months with confidence.

Here’s how to make summer work for you, not against you.

1. Don’t Let the Heat Win

Hot days can make fatigue, dizziness and inflammation worse. If you’re heat-sensitive (many Lyme patients are), pace yourself.

·       Avoid peak sun hours (10am–4pm).

·       Stay in the shade or air conditioning when you can.

·       Keep a cooling towel or portable fan on hand.

·       Hydrate like it’s your job, because it kind of is.

Pro tip: Coconut water is a great natural electrolyte booster (just skip the sugar-laden versions).

2. Tick Season Is No Joke

Ticks love warm weather and they’re sneakier than you think. Whether you're gardening, hiking, or just sitting on the grass, be vigilant.

·       Use permethrin-treated clothing or DEET-based repellent.

·       Do daily tick checks, even if you’ve only been in your backyard.

·       Stick to the center of trails and avoid brushing against tall grass.

·       Shower after being outdoors to wash off any unseen hitchhikers.

Lyme patients don’t need a second round. Prevention is key.

3. Stick to Your Anti-Inflammatory Diet (Even at Cookouts)

We get it, summer is full of temptation: ice cream, burgers, sugary drinks. But the inflammatory response those foods can trigger? Not worth it.

Bring your own Lyme-friendly snacks if you're heading to a BBQ. Think:

·       Veggie skewers

·       Fresh fruit

·       Grilled fish or lean meats

·       Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber

Pro tip: A little planning helps you stay consistent and still enjoy social events.

4. Prioritize Rest (Even When Everyone Else is on the Go)

FOMO is real in summer. Friends are traveling, kids are out of school, and the pressure to “do more” ramps up. But your body needs what it needs.

Listen to it.

If that means skipping a beach day or leaving a party early to rest DO IT! Healing comes first. You can still make meaningful memories while honoring your health.

5. Support Your System Naturally

Summer is a great time to get back to basics with wellness. Gentle movement like swimming or walking, fresh air and nutrient-rich foods can all support your body’s healing process.

And if you need extra help managing symptoms? Lyme Laser™ protocols are designed to reduce the body’s inflammatory response, support detox and help balance the immune system. All critical in the summer months when your body is already working overtime.

Final Thoughts

Managing Lyme in the summer doesn’t mean sitting on the sidelines. It just means tuning in, planning ahead and knowing your boundaries. At Lyme Laser™, we’re here to walk with you, season by season, flare-up by flare-up, win by win.

This summer, be gentle with yourself. Protect your energy, stay tick-aware, and don’t forget: healing is happening, even on the slow days.

Need help managing your Lyme symptoms this summer? Contact us for a FREE personalized consultation. Let’s get you back to living, on your terms.